2 Chronicles 15:7

Translation
King James Version
Be ye strong therefore, and let not your hands be weak: for your work shall be rewarded.
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KJV (with Strong's)
Be ye strong H2388 therefore, and let not your hands H3027 be weak H7503: for your work H6468 shall be H3426 rewarded H7939.
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Complete Jewish Bible
But you, be strong, and don't slack off; for your work will be rewarded."
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Berean Standard Bible
But as for you, be strong; do not be discouraged, for your work will be rewarded.”
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American Standard Version
But be ye strong, and let not your hands be slack; for your work shall be rewarded.
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World English Bible Messianic
But you be strong, and don’t let your hands be slack; for your work shall be rewarded.”
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Geneva Bible (1599)
Be ye strong therefore, and let not your handes be weake: for your worke shall haue a rewarde.
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Young's Literal Translation
and ye, be ye strong, and let not your hands be feeble, for there is a reward for your work.'
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See also
Joshua 1:71 Corinthians 15:58Joshua 1:9Hebrews 10:351 Chronicles 28:202 John 1:8Genesis 15:1
In the KJVVerse 11,498 of 31,102

Study This Verse

SUMMARY

2 Chronicles 15:7 delivers a powerful divine exhortation from the prophet Azariah to King Asa and the people of Judah, urging them to maintain their spiritual vigor and diligence in serving God. It serves as a profound encouragement to persevere in righteousness and reform, assuring them that their faithful efforts and obedience will not go unacknowledged or unrewarded by the Lord. This verse encapsulates a core biblical principle of divine reciprocity, where human faithfulness is met with God's steadfast blessing and recompense.

CONTEXT

  • Literary Context: This verse is the climactic conclusion of Azariah's prophetic message to King Asa, found in 2 Chronicles 15:1-7. The prophecy immediately follows King Asa's decisive victory over Zerah the Ethiopian's vast army, a triumph attributed to Asa's fervent prayer and reliance on God, as detailed in 2 Chronicles 14:9-15. Azariah's message functions as both an affirmation of Asa's initial faithfulness and a crucial call to sustained commitment. It reinforces the conditional nature of God's presence and blessing, famously stating, "The LORD is with you, while ye be with him; and if ye seek him, he will be found of you; but if ye forsake him, he will forsake you" (2 Chronicles 15:2). Verse 7, therefore, is a direct application of this principle, urging continued strength and effort in light of God's promised reward, emphasizing that their past success was a direct result of their seeking God.
  • Historical & Cultural Context: King Asa reigned during a period of significant religious and political flux in Judah. He began his reign with commendable zeal, initiating widespread reforms to purge idolatry and restore true worship, as described in 2 Chronicles 14:2-5. The victory over the Ethiopians was a monumental event, demonstrating God's power on behalf of a king who sought Him. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, prophets often served as divine messengers, speaking God's will directly to kings and the populace, offering guidance, rebuke, or encouragement. Azariah's prophecy would have been understood as a direct word from Yahweh, carrying immense authority and shaping the king's subsequent actions. The concept of "work" and "reward" was deeply embedded in the covenantal framework, where obedience to God's laws was expected to yield blessings, while disobedience would result in curses, as outlined in Deuteronomy 28. This cultural understanding would have made the promise of reward a powerful incentive for continued faithfulness.
  • Key Themes: The verse significantly contributes to several overarching themes within 2 Chronicles and the broader Old Testament narrative. Firstly, it underscores the theme of Divine Encouragement, where God actively inspires and empowers His people to remain steadfast, even amidst challenges. Secondly, it highlights Perseverance in Righteousness, emphasizing that the spiritual journey is not a one-time decision but an ongoing commitment requiring sustained effort and vigilance against spiritual weariness. This resonates with later biblical calls to "not grow weary in well-doing" (Galatians 6:9). Thirdly, the verse firmly establishes the theme of Promise of Divine Reward, assuring that God is a faithful recompenser of those who diligently seek and serve Him. This principle is foundational to biblical faith, affirming God's justice and His commitment to honoring the labor of His people, a truth echoed in Hebrews 11:6). The reward here encompasses not merely material prosperity but divine favor, successful endeavors, and spiritual blessings in the context of God's kingdom.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

  • strong (Hebrew, châzaq', H2388): Translated as "Be ye strong," this Hebrew verb (H2388) carries a rich semantic range, implying not just physical strength but also courage, firmness, resolve, and determination. It is frequently used in the Old Testament to command or encourage someone to be strong and courageous in the face of daunting tasks or opposition, particularly in leadership roles or when undertaking God's work. For example, it is used when God commands Joshua to "be strong and courageous" as he leads Israel into the Promised Land (Joshua 1:6). In this context, it is a spiritual and moral injunction to maintain steadfastness in their commitment to God's ways, to "fasten upon" righteousness and not let go.
  • weak (Hebrew, râphâh', H7503): Appearing in the negative command "let not your hands be weak" (from the root râphâh, H7503), this verb means "to slacken," "to relax," "to let go," or "to grow faint." The phrase "hands be weak" is a common idiom in Hebrew, symbolizing a cessation of effort, idleness, discouragement, or a giving up on a task. It's an admonition against spiritual apathy or abandoning righteous endeavors due to weariness, opposition, or lack of immediate visible results. It calls for sustained effort and diligence, preventing one from becoming "feeble" or "slothful" in their divine assignment.
  • rewarded (Hebrew, sâkâr', H7939): Rendered as "reward," this noun (H7939) refers to wages, recompense, or payment for labor or service. It denotes a just return for effort expended, often implying a "payment of contract" or "compensation." In the biblical context, it emphasizes God's equitable nature and His commitment to honoring faithful service and obedience. The reward is a divine acknowledgment and blessing, affirming that no genuine effort for God's kingdom goes unnoticed or uncompensated by Him, providing "benefit" or "worth" to their actions.

Verse Breakdown

  • "Be ye strong therefore": This is a direct, imperative command, urging King Asa and the people to actively embrace courage and resolute determination. The "therefore" links this command directly to the preceding verses of Azariah's prophecy, particularly the assurance of God's presence for those who seek Him and their recent victory. It implies that in light of God's faithfulness and their triumph, they have every reason to be strong and continue their reforms with unwavering resolve.
  • "and let not your hands be weak": This negative injunction serves as a powerful parallel to the first clause, reinforcing the call for sustained effort. "Hands" often symbolize action, work, and practical engagement. To let one's hands be weak means to cease working, to become discouraged, or to abandon the righteous path. It is a warning against spiritual lethargy, complacency, or giving up on the ongoing work of purging idolatry and seeking God, emphasizing the need for continuous, active participation.
  • "for your work shall be rewarded": This final clause provides the motivation and assurance for the preceding commands. The "work" refers to their diligent efforts in seeking God, obeying His commands, and carrying out the reforms. The promise of "reward" signifies God's faithfulness to recompense those who serve Him diligently. This reward is not necessarily immediate or material but encompasses divine favor, blessing, success in their endeavors, and the ultimate vindication of their faithfulness. It serves as a powerful incentive to persevere, knowing that God will acknowledge and bless their labor.

Literary Devices

2 Chronicles 15:7 employs several potent Literary Devices to convey its message. The primary device is Exhortation, a direct and forceful encouragement to action, evident in the imperative commands "Be ye strong" and "let not your hands be weak." This direct address aims to inspire and motivate the audience to specific conduct and sustained effort. A clear Metaphor is present in the phrase "let not your hands be weak," where "hands" stand metonymically for effort, work, and practical action, and "weak" symbolizes discouragement, idleness, or cessation of effort. This vivid imagery makes the call to perseverance tangible and relatable. Furthermore, the verse exhibits strong Parallelism, particularly in the balanced structure of the first two clauses: "Be ye strong therefore" and "let not your hands be weak." These two phrases, while distinct, convey a unified message of sustained vigor and diligence through both positive and negative commands, reinforcing the central theme of perseverance. The final clause, "for your work shall be rewarded," functions as a Motive Clause, providing the compelling reason and incentive for adhering to the preceding exhortations by highlighting the beneficial outcome of obedience.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

This verse profoundly connects to the overarching biblical narrative of God's covenant faithfulness and humanity's call to responsive obedience. It highlights the principle that God is not indifferent to the efforts of His people; rather, He actively observes and justly recompenses those who diligently seek and serve Him. This divine reciprocity underscores God's character as a righteous judge and a generous rewarder, affirming that true spiritual labor is never in vain. It teaches that while salvation is by grace through faith, God values and honors the active, persevering faith that manifests in obedience and diligent service. The promise of reward serves not as a basis for earning salvation, but as an encouragement for faithful stewardship within the covenant relationship, affirming God's commitment to His promises.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

2 Chronicles 15:7 offers timeless encouragement for believers navigating the complexities of faith and life today. In a world often characterized by instant gratification and short-term thinking, this verse calls us to a deeper, more enduring commitment. It reminds us that the pursuit of righteousness, the work of spiritual growth, and the labor of kingdom service are often long-haul endeavors, fraught with challenges and requiring sustained effort. When faced with discouragement, opposition, or the slow pace of change, this divine word urges us not to "let our hands be weak," but to renew our strength in the Lord. It reassures us that our unseen sacrifices, our quiet acts of obedience, and our persistent prayers are not overlooked by God. Knowing that our "work shall be rewarded" provides a powerful antidote to weariness, motivating us to continue pressing forward with courage and diligence, trusting in God's ultimate faithfulness and His perfect timing for recompense. This promise empowers us to remain steadfast, knowing that every act of faithfulness, no matter how small, contributes to God's eternal purposes and will be honored by Him.

Questions for Reflection

  • What specific areas of your life or ministry are currently tempting you to "let your hands be weak," and how can you apply the call to "be strong" in those areas?
  • How does the promise of God's reward motivate your perseverance, especially when your efforts seem unnoticed or unappreciated by others?
  • In what ways might your "work" for the Lord manifest in your daily life, and how can you ensure it is done with diligence and integrity?
  • How does understanding God as a rewarder shape your perspective on challenges and setbacks in your spiritual journey?

FAQ

What does "let not your hands be weak" specifically imply for believers today?

Answer: "Let not your hands be weak" is a powerful idiom that implies a call to avoid spiritual apathy, discouragement, and idleness. For believers today, it means to not give up on the good work God has called them to, whether it's in their personal spiritual disciplines (prayer, Bible study), their service in the church, or their witness in the world. It's an exhortation to maintain diligence, perseverance, and active engagement in pursuing righteousness and fulfilling their God-given purpose, even when facing opposition, weariness, or a lack of immediate results. It encourages steadfastness in faith and obedience, reminding us that our efforts are seen by God and that our labor in the Lord is never in vain, as 1 Corinthians 15:58 affirms.

Is the "reward" mentioned in 2 Chronicles 15:7 always material or immediate?

Answer: No, the "reward" mentioned in this verse is not exclusively material or immediate. While God certainly blesses His people in tangible ways, the primary emphasis of "reward" (Hebrew sâkâr) in this context, and throughout Scripture, is on divine favor, spiritual blessings, successful outcomes in God's work, and ultimately, eternal recompense. For Asa, the reward included continued peace, prosperity, and God's presence, leading to significant reforms and a period of stability for Judah, as seen in 2 Chronicles 15:19. For believers today, the reward encompasses the joy of God's presence, spiritual fruitfulness, the satisfaction of obedient service, and the ultimate inheritance and commendation in Christ, as promised in passages like Matthew 6:4 and Revelation 22:12.

How does this verse help us overcome discouragement in our spiritual walk or ministry?

Answer: This verse offers profound encouragement by shifting our focus from the immediate difficulties to God's ultimate faithfulness. When we feel our "hands getting weak" due to the challenges of living a godly life, the slow progress of ministry, or the lack of visible impact, the promise that "your work shall be rewarded" serves as a powerful antidote to discouragement. It reminds us that our labor for the Lord is never in vain (1 Corinthians 15:58). Knowing that God sees our efforts, values our obedience, and will justly recompense us, provides the motivation to renew our strength and persevere, trusting in His sovereign plan and His perfect timing for blessing and vindication. It encourages us to fix our eyes on the eternal reward rather than temporary setbacks, much like Jesus "for the joy that was set before him endured the cross" (Hebrews 12:2).

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

2 Chronicles 15:7, with its call to strength and promise of reward, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. While the Old Testament promise of reward was often tied to covenantal obedience and earthly blessings, Christ redefines and elevates the nature of both the "strength" and the "reward." Our ability to "be strong" and not let our "hands be weak" is no longer solely dependent on human will or effort, but is empowered by the indwelling Holy Spirit and the resurrection power of Christ, as Paul declares, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" (Philippians 4:13). Our "work" is now understood not as a means to earn favor, but as a grateful response to the grace already received through Christ's finished work on the cross. We are called to "abide in Him" (John 15:4), for apart from Him, we can do nothing. The ultimate "reward" is no longer merely temporal prosperity but the eternal inheritance and the commendation from Christ Himself, who will return "bringing his recompense with him, to give to each one according to his work" (Revelation 22:12). Through Christ, our perseverance in faith and love is assured, and our labor for His kingdom, however small, is eternally significant, not because of our merit, but because we are working in Him and for Him, our ultimate rewarder and the one who makes our "work" truly fruitful (Colossians 3:23-24).

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Commentary on 2 Chronicles 15 verses 1–7

It was a great happiness to Israel that they had prophets among them; yet, while they were thus blessed, they were strangely addicted to idolatry, whereas, when the spirit of prophecy had ceased under the second temple, and the canon of the Old Temple was completed (which was constantly read in their synagogues), they were pure from idolatry; for the scriptures are of all other the most sure word of prophecy, and most effectual, and the church could not be so easily imposed upon by a counterfeit Bible as by a counterfeit prophet. Here was a prophet sent to Asa and his army, when they returned victorious from the war with the Ethiopians, not to compliment them and congratulate them on their success, but to quicken them to their duty; this is the proper business of God's ministers, even with princes and the greatest men. The Spirit of God came upon the prophet (Ch2 15:1), both to instruct him what he should say and to enable him to say it with clearness and boldness.

I. He told them plainly upon what terms they stood with God. Let them not think that, having obtained this victory, all was their own for ever; no, he must let them know they were upon their good behaviour. Let them do well, and it will be well with them, otherwise not. 1. The Lord is with you while you are with him. This is both a word of comfort, that those who keep close to God shall always have his presence with them, and also a word of caution: "He is with you, while you are with him, but no longer; you have now a signal token of his favourable presence with you, but the continuance of it depends upon your perseverance in the way of your duty." 2. "If you seek him, he will be found of you. Sincerely desire his favour, and aim at it, and you shall obtain it. Pray, and you shall prevail. He never said, nor ever will, Seek you me in vain." See Heb 11:6. But, 3. "If you forsake him and his ordinances, he is not tied to you, but will certainly forsake you, and then you are undone, your present triumphs will be no security to you; woe to you when God departs."

II. He set before them the dangerous consequence of forsaking God and his ordinances, and that there was no way of having grievances redressed, but by repenting, and returning unto God. When Israel forsook their duty they were over-run with a deluge of atheism, impiety, irreligion, and all irregularity (Ch2 15:3), and were continually embarrassed with vexatious and destroying wars, foreign and domestic, Ch2 15:5, Ch2 15:6. But when their troubles drove them to God they found it not in vain to seek him, Ch2 15:4. But the question is, What time does this refer to? 1. Some think it looks as far back as the days of the Judges. A long season ago Israel was without the true God, for they worshipped false gods; it was a time of ignorance, for, though they had priests, they had no teaching priests, though they had elders, yet no law to any purpose, v. 3. These were sad times, when they were frequently oppressed by one enemy or other and grievously harassed by Moabites, Midianites, Ammonites, and other nations. They were vexed with all adversity (v. 6), yet when, in their perplexity, they turned to God by repentance, prayer, and reformation, he raised up deliverers for them. Then was that maxim often verified, that God is with us while we are with him. Whatsoever things of this kind were written aforetime were written for our admonition. 2. Others think it describes the state of the ten tribes (who were now properly called Israel) in the days of Asa. "Now, since Jeroboam set up the calves, though he pretended to honour the God that brought them out of Egypt, yet his idolatry has brought them to downright infidelity; they are without the true God," and no marvel when they were without teaching priests. Jeroboam's priests were not teachers, and thus they came to be without law. It is next to impossible that any thing of religion should be kept up without a preaching ministry. In those times there was no peace, Ch2 15:5. Their war with Judah gave them frequent alarms; so did the late insurrection of Baasha and other occasions not mentioned. They provoked God with all iniquity, and then he vexed them with all adversity; yet, when they turned to God, he was entreated for them. Let Judah take notice of this; let their neighbours' harms be their warnings. Give no countenance to graven images for you see what mischiefs they produce. 3. Others think the whole passage may be read in the future tense, and that it looks forward: Hereafter Israel will be without the true God and a teaching priest, and they will be destroyed by one judgment after another till they return to God and seek him. See Hos 3:4.

III. Upon this he grounded his exhortation to prosecute the work of reformation with vigour (Ch2 15:7): Be strong, for your work shall be rewarded. Note, 1. God's work should be done with diligence and cheerfulness, but will not be done without resolution. 2. This should quicken us to the work of religion, that we shall be sure not to lose by it ultimately. It will not go unrewarded. How should it, when the work is its own reward?

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 1–7. Public domain.
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Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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